Soldiers are expected to be loyal, disciplined, tough, and selfless individuals who put their country's interests above all else. They are trained to follow orders without question, to overcome hardship and danger, and to work as a team towards a common goal.
Behind this public image is a complicated private identity that often conflicts with these expectations. Soldiers have personal lives, families, and desires just like anyone else, and they must balance those needs with the demands of military service. This can lead to stress, anxiety, and even PTSD, especially when their identities don't fit into the stereotypes of soldierhood.
The pressure to conform
One of the biggest challenges for soldiers is the pressure to conform to gender norms and traditional ideas about masculinity. In many militaries around the world, there is an emphasis on physical strength, aggression, and stoicism, which can make it difficult for soldiers to express vulnerability or emotions. Some men may feel ashamed or embarrassed if they cry, show fear or sadness, or admit to being tired or hurt. As a result, they may bottle up their feelings or act out in destructive ways. Others may turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with the stresses of war. For women, meanwhile, there is often a double standard where they are expected to be both strong and feminine, leading to confusion and conflict. They may face harassment or discrimination from male soldiers, or struggle to find support networks outside of the military.
Reconciling identities
Despite these pressures, some soldiers are able to reconcile their private identities with their public roles through various strategies. One approach is to embrace the contradictions between their private and public selves, recognizing that they are not mutually exclusive. Soldiers can see themselves as complex individuals who can be both tough and compassionate, brave and scared, loyal and individualistic. By acknowledging their full range of emotions and experiences, they can find greater resilience and meaning in their service. Others may seek out support groups or therapy to work through their issues, connecting with other soldiers who share similar struggles. Still others may try to change their environment by speaking out against sexist or homophobic attitudes within the military, or advocating for more flexible policies around gender expression and family leave.
How do soldiers reconcile private identities with public expectations?
Soldiers often face difficulties when it comes to reconciling their personal identities with military roles and duties assigned by their leaders. This is because they are required to put aside their individual opinions and beliefs for the sake of fulfilling their obligations as members of the armed forces. Moreover, being in the military requires them to suppress any feelings that may affect their performance on the battlefield.